You old sailors have superstitions or beliefs, and I, a landsman, have a conviction, too.

The invisible prophets tell me that he will not be killed." "I don't laugh at such things, David.

The greatness and loneliness of the sea does breed superstition in mariners.

I know there is no such thing as the supernatural, and yet I am swayed at times by the unknown." "At least I will watch over him as best I can, and he has uncommon skill in taking care of himself." Robert's will triumphed over a curiosity that was intense and burning, and he turned away.

He knew they were speaking of him, and he seemed to be connected with great affairs.